Metro Transit workers’ union: Backlog of repairs, inspections could threaten routes

MADISON, Wis. (WMDX) – The local union that represents Metro Transit workers said problems may be coming for bus service riders. 

Teamsters Local 120 represents 400 Metro Transit workers. The union says the city is behind on repairs and inspections, which are required by federal law. 

“We want our community to be able to get to school, work, and to all of the places that Madison has to offer, but things must change immediately at Metro Transit Madison to accomplish this,” said union president Tom Erickson.

The statement from Teamsters 120 said this backlog is “endangering their ability for buses to run their daily routes.” It said mechanics deserve better than a system that “can’t function due to mismanagement and inadequate staffing.” 

Metro Transit workers have been working without a contract for all of 2025. 

Meanwhile, Metro Transit interim director Eric Knepp said he’s confident that they’ll keep service reliable. He said the city is “actively working with our talented mechanics and maintenance staff to align resources to meet the complex maintenance requirements of our fleet.”

Both Knepp and the union acknowledged that the busy season is coming. UW-Madison students come back to campus soon, and Madison public schools begin the year in a few weeks.